(a) Levels of priority. (1) There are two levels of priority established by the HRPAS, identified by the rating symbols “DO” and “DX”.

(2) All DO rated orders have equal priority with each other and take precedence over unrated orders. All DX rated orders have equal priority with each other and take precedence over DO rated orders and unrated orders. (For resolution of conflicts among rated orders of equal priority, see § 101.34(c).

(3) In addition, a Directive regarding priority treatment for a given item issued by HHS for that item takes precedence over any DX rated order, DO rated order, or unrated order, as stipulated in the Directive. (For a full discussion of Directives, see § 101.62.)

(b) Priority ratings. A priority rating is an identifying code assigned by a Delegate Agency or authorized person placed on all rated orders for health resources. It consists of the rating symbol and the program identification symbol.